MRI Partial Fourier

Partial Fourier in MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) refers to a data acquisition strategy used to reduce the time required for acquiring a complete MRI image. The MRI image acquisition process involves gathering multiple sets of data points, known as “k-space” data, which are subsequently transformed into an image using a mathematical technique called Fourier transformation.

In conventional MRI data acquisition, the entire k-space is populated by acquiring all the necessary data points. However, acquiring all these data points within k-space can be time-consuming, especially for high-resolution or 3D imaging, resulting in longer scan durations. Partial Fourier is a method employed to expedite the acquisition process while still producing satisfactory images.

Within Partial Fourier imaging, only a segment of the k-space is procured, typically along one dimension. The absent data in the remaining dimension(s) are approximated or filled using mathematical algorithms. The Partial Fourier technique capitalizes on the symmetrical attributes of both k-space and image space to accurately predict the missing data. This facilitates quicker acquisition times, thereby diminishing the overall scan duration.

Partial Fourier imaging proves particularly beneficial in scenarios necessitating reduced scan times, such as when imaging mobile structures (e.g., the heart and small bowel), during breath-hold examinations to curtail scan duration, or when patients experience difficulty maintaining stillness over extended periods.